Esophageal Testing
Lincoln Surgical can order or perform several tests to diagnose esophageal disorders.
Esophogram
An esophogram is ordered by Lincoln Surgical and performed by a radiologist. The patient drinks a contrast solution, and the radiologist takes X-rays as the solution goes through the esophagus. The X-rays give the surgeon a detailed look at the anatomy of the esophagus, including checking for a hiatal hernia or looking for an esophageal cause of symptoms.
We perform
85Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Lincoln Surgical uses upper endoscopy, or EGD, to get a better look at the upper GI tract. An EGD is performed under sedation, and the surgeon uses an endoscope (a tiny device featuring a camera and a light) to get a good look at the upper GI tract from the inside, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and the part of the small intestine connected to the stomach (the duodenum). The surgeon performing the EGD is looking for tissue damage, growths or ulcers, bleeding and holes, and other abnormalities in the upper GI tract.
An EGD can help diagnose the symptoms causing abdominal pain, heartburn, trouble swallowing, chronic acid reflux, frequent nausea or vomiting, or unexplained weight loss.
Matthew Smith, DO, FACS; Lance Hale IV, MD, FACS; and Scott Schwiesow, MD, FACS, have the special training required to perform EGD exams.
48-Hour pH Bravo Monitor
The Bravo monitor features a tiny microchip (placed while the patient is under sedation) that adheres to the wall of the esophagus and monitors the amount of acid coming into the esophagus. That information is transmitted to a box the patient carries during the Bravo test. The box has buttons that let the patient record when they are eating or lying down, as well as the top three reflux symptoms they are dealing with for 48 hours.
Lincoln Surgical may also order a high-resolution manometry or gastric emptying study to help diagnose or rule out reflux conditions.